Robert MacRae to be Jersey's next Bailiff

Tuesday, 22 April 2025 11:20

Jersey's Deputy Bailiff Robert MacRae KC will become Bailiff in October.

The King has approved the appointment of Mr MacRae to succeed Sir Tim Le Cocq when he retires in the autumn.

Mr MacRae has been Deputy Bailiff since 2020 and is a former Attorney General.

He went to La Moye School, Victoria College Prep and Victoria College before reading law at Exeter University.

He studied for the English Bar and practised as an English barrister for a number of years before returning to Jersey in 2001 and qualifying as an Advocate in 2003.

Following a decade as a partner at Carey Olsen, he left private practice to become Attorney General in May 2015.

He is expected to be sworn into office as the 91st Bailiff of Jersey on 24 October 2025.

Bailiff Sir Tim Le Cocq announced the appointment during today's States sitting.

“I was delighted to be able to announce in the States Assembly that Mr MacRae has been named as my successor by His Majesty The King.

"Mr MacRae has a proven track record of service to Jersey which I have no doubt he will continue to the highest standard during his time as Bailiff. I wish him every success.”

Mr MacRae said: “I feel deeply honoured to have been appointed by His Majesty The King to serve as Bailiff of Jersey.

"The ancient office of Bailiff has been at the heart of Island life for over 800 years; in times of need the Bailiff has defended Jersey’s rights and privileges, and in times of celebration and remembrance the Bailiff has represented the people of Jersey both at home and overseas.

"I will do my best as presiding officer of the States, Chief Justice of the Island and Jersey’s civic head, to serve our community, as Sir Timothy Le Cocq has done.”